City adding 3.5 miles of pedestrian and bicycle transportation routes to connect South Troy with existing Uncle Sam Trail in North Central

TROY, NY – Mayor Patrick Madden today announced that the City of Troy is adding approximately 3.5 miles of pedestrian and bicycle transportation routes between the Menands Bridge and Middleburgh Street to connect with the existing Uncle Sam Trail. When completed, the trail will provide a direct link between the City’s South Troy and Lansingburgh neighborhoods. Construction associated with the trail extension project is scheduled to begin Wednesday, April 25.

Mayor Patrick Madden said, “We are thrilled to officially begin this important expansion of our City’s growing alternative transportation network. By extending the Uncle Sam Trail we will strengthen the physical connection between our diverse neighborhoods and provide new opportunities for residents & visitors of all ages and abilities to explore all that Troy has to offer.”

The Uncle Sam Trail extension is funded in part from a Federal Highway Administration transportation grant. A combination of shared and separated facilities for pedestrians and bicycles will be constructed, including scattered replacement of sidewalk blocks and ramps along the route. The shared facilities will consist of lanes or “share the road” symbols painted on the street for bicycles, with sidewalks being available for pedestrians. Separated facilities will include a dedicated two-way paved trail for all non-motorized users.

Steven Strichman, Troy Commissioner of Planning and Economic Development said, “In addition to extending the established trail and further enhancing the walkability of our City, this new route creates nearly one mile of continuous riverfront access along the Hudson River. We are excited to begin the next phase of this important transportation initiative to provide a new link between our diverse neighborhoods throughout the Collar City.”

Traffic Advisory

Motorists are advised to expect lane closures and parking restrictions on designated streets during trail extension construction. The lane closures are necessary for sidewalk and lane reconstruction as part of the project.

On Wednesday April 25, the eastbound exit of the Congress Street Bridge will be closed for the day for milling at the base of the ramp. The ramp will open again at the end of the day but repaving will not occur for approximately three weeks.

Additionally, beginning April 25, Front Street between Congress Street and Division Street will be opened to southbound travel only for approximately 3 weeks. River Street will be open to southbound travel only between Division Street and Adams Street. Northbound traffic on River Street in this area will be detoured east to 4th street at Adams Street.

Residents are asked to observe all posted parking restrictions in the vicinity of the work area. Notifications will be posted in the area of affected streets. Motorists are asked to use caution while traveling through work zones to ensure the safety of workers. Motorists are also reminded watch for traffic flaggers and seek alternate routes at this time. Local emergency services have been notified of the traffic restrictions and lane closures.